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Passive Voice

hbeekman2 — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 16:38:33 CST

A sentence is written in the passive voice when it's action is done to, and not by it's subject. With active voice the subject is the do-er. The switch happens between object and subject.

Ex. Passive voice: The cake was made.

The subject is "the cake". Note: the maker of the cake is missing here, which is something that happens a lot in the passive voice; the do-ers get left out. It's something that can be useful or damaging to one's writing depending on his purpose.

Active voice: I made the cake.

The subject is “I”, and "the cake" becomes the object.

Not a convention in itself, passive voice has existed as long as written language. It's an approach more than a technique, and appears frequently in diplomatic and “official” writings precisely because it tends to water things down. Thus the government official admits that “mistakes were made”, and avoids directing the blame at himself ("I made mistakes"). Passive voice is also used in writing that is necessarily objective, such as scientific reports. In such a case the do-er, the scientist, is not as important as the thing which is being acted upon, and therefore it makes sense that the object of the experiment would be the subject of the sentence. Active voice, however, is generally preferred in rhetorical writing for its more direct approach.

Passive voice appears most frequently in the construction subject+state of being verb+action verb.

Ex. He was hit. (Active voice: John hit him.)

It also pops up in infinite verb phrases...

Ex. To run all the way would be too hard. (Active voice [though there isn't really a direct translation for this one]: I don't want to run all the way; it's too hard.)

and gerunds (a kind of ing-verb).

Ex. Being late to the party,... (Active voice: Since I was late to the party...)

For further Research:
http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/passive.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Passive_voice
http://www.unc.edu/depts/wcweb/handouts/passivevoice.html

"I"Before "E" Except...

mdrake2 — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 14:27:23 CST

“I” before “E” except….
By: Michael Drake

This is one of the most famous rules in the English language. It is a mnemonic device, which is usually just a special word or poem used to help with memory. In this case, the rule has been turned into a poem; and there are different versions of it. The British version is: “When the sound is ee / it’s i before e / except after c.” There is a longer American version: “i before e / except after c / or when sounding like ‘a’ / as in neighbor or weigh / their, weird and either, / foreign, seize and neither, / leisure, forfeit and height / are exceptions spelled right.” This version is more extensive and more explanatory but it is less likely that someone bother to memorize it all. Some people barely memorize as far as the “except after c” part. There is another shorter American version that also acknowledges the fact that there are so many exceptions in the English language: “i before e / except after c / but we live in a weird society.” It defies both parts of the rule; ‘weird’ has an ei in it and ‘society’ has an ie after c.
Some examples of words that follow the “I before E except after C” rule:
Friend
Receive
Relief
Shriek
Thief
Some examples of words that do not follow the “I before E except after C” rule:
Protein
Science
Neighbor
Weight
Beige
The problem with rules like this one is that they are too general. That is why they seem to have so many exceptions. Instead, we should focus on a more meaningful examination of when to use I’s and E’s. The rule mainly applies when the “ee” sound is made like in the words priest, achieve, and piece. The “ay” sound (as in the word day) is likely to be made with a spelling of ei. Examples of this are eight, weight, and heir. An ei spelling is also likely with the sounds “i” and the long “i” as they sound in the words fit and eye, respectively. Examples of these two sounds are forfeit, sovereign, and height.
The deeper problem has to do with the English language as a whole. There are too many rules and too many exceptions to counter those rules. The “I before E” rule is a perfect example of that.

Sources: Wikipedia Blurtit.com

Hyphen

moleary2 — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 13:54:07 CST

Definition
The hyphen is a punctuation mark used between the parts of a compound word or name or between the syllables of a word, especially when divided at the end of a line of text (American Heritage Dictionary).

History
The actual word “hyphen” comes from the Greek “hyphun” meaning “a sign indicating a compound or two words which are to be read as one” (American Heritage Dictionary). It came to develop after the slash in history when typing had just begun but was often not used as a slash’s vertical nature takes up less space, and some confused the hyphen with an equals sign.

Examples
The hyphen is used in creating compound words; not what is commonly thought of as compound words such as birdhouse, but rather, when a word becomes somewhat of a modifier such is the saying “quick-paced” or “intensity-filled”, or in ways such as “hand-in-hand” or “on-the-go”.

Hyphens are also used in double digit numbers over twenty, such as thirty-one, sixty-seven.

In some prefix adding situations such as “ex-wife” or “self-confidence”, hyphens are used.

Finally, the hyphen is used at the end of a syllable of a word if that word is too long to fit on the end of a line. This technique is tricky because many people are unsure where exactly to split a word up such as “excl-amation” or “exc-lamation”. This is becoming outdated as computers today automatically move a word to the next line rather than an individual using a type-writer trying to gage how much of a word will fit on one line and how much will need to be shuttled to the next line.

Sources
Capital Community College Foundation, comp. "The Hyphen." The Guide to Grammar and Writing. 30 Nov. 2008 http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/marks/hyphen.htm.

"hyphen." The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition. Houghton Mifflin Company, 2004. 30 Nov. 2008. <Dictionary.com http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/hyphen>.

"Origin and history of the hyphen." Global Oneness. 30 Nov. 2008 <http://www.experiencefestival.com/origin_and_history_of_the_hyphen>.

Runnin` On

bpaulshock2 — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 13:47:43 CST

The definition of a run-on sentence is a sentence in which two or more independent clauses that are joined with no punctuation or conjunction. A run-on sentence usually concerned to be a grammatical error. I always thought that a sentence that is a run-on would be a long sentence that is needed to be split up. This conclusion I had became false. This type of sentence tends to become a run-on when it contains more than one complete idea. To fix this grammatical problem, punctuations should be added into the sentence to separate the clashing ideas.

Can grammatical errors in writing make history? If so, what is the brief history of run-on sentences? Yes, run-on sentences do have a little bit of history behind their errors. Run-on sentences was first brought to the world of grammar in the 1900`s. Not one particular person makes up these grammatical errors. People notice something wrong and make it as a ‘run-on sentences’. Run-on sentences have not changed over time. Run-on sentences have only changed in a persons` life over time as they become a better writer. I believe that the older or more educated you become, the less likely you are to have a run-on sentence. There have been problems with run-on sentences in its history. Run-on sentences are not simple to read or understand. This can be a problem for readers, which can cause a bigger problem in the literature world.

Examples:
[Examples do not flow together smoothly because separate ideas are being placed into one sentence. When the ideas are separated, the sentence will make more sense to the reader]

1. I`m a woman I am a truck driver (run-on sentenced)
I`m a woman. I am a truck driver (fixed run-on sentence with a period added)

2. I heard the tires squeal then the car came around the corner I got out of the way fast. (run-on)
I heard the tires squeal, then the car came around the corner. I got out of the way fast. (fixed)

3. Once upon a time there was a man his name was Josh. (run-on)
Once upon a time, there was a man. His name was Josh. (fixed)

4. I saw a teacher who cares. (run-on)
I saw a teacher. Who cares? (fixed)

Work Cited:
"Run-on sentence." wikepedia.com. 2008. Wikimedia Foundation, Inc.. 25 November 2008 <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Run-on_sentence>.

"Run-On Sentences." Grammar Girl. 2007. 03 April 2007 <http://grammar.quickanddirtytips.com/run-on-sentences.aspx>.

"Run-On Sentences." 2002. WriteGuide, Inc.. 12 Dec 2008 <http://www.writeguide.com/Run-on%20Sentences.PDF>.

The Semicolon

Sampolan — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 12:40:21 CST

Definition: 1) punctuation mark that connects two complete thoughts or sentences into one sentence, also used before a transitional phrase or conjoining adverb
2) used to link two independent clauses related in meaning not already joined by a conjunction
3) used to sort out a large list

History: Aldus Manutius, an Italian printer, began to use the semicolon in the late 1400s to separate words of opposite meaning and to connect sentences dependent on each other. It had been in England since 1560 used by a printer in London by the name of Henry Denham. However, the earliest known general use in English was not until 1591 when it was used by Ben Johnson and when it appeared in Shakespeare’s sonnets. The semicolon gained acceptance in Europe in the late 18th century. The semicolon is called Fasla Manqouta in Arabic which is translated to ‘dotted comma’. It is used differently by connecting two phrases when the first phrase causes the second phrase or when the second phrase is the reason of the first. The semicolon is used to denote a question in the Church Slavonic and Greek languages. The semicolon is not just used in written languages; it is also used in computer programming with different usages depending on the computer program. It is often used to separate multiple statements or separate elements in a string of text. In math, the semicolon is used to separate parameters and variables, but in differential geometry, it precedes an index to show the covariant derivative. Semicolons are placed outside any parentheses or quotation marks. There is no space between the semicolon and the letter before it, though there is a single space after the punctuation mark. It must be used carefully for if it is used instead of a comma, a comma splice occurs. Instead of using a comma, a semicolon could be incorrectly placed in a sentence. Commonly where a semicolon is used, a period can be put in its place. That is often used as a check to make sure the semicolon is used correctly.

Examples:
Correct Usage: “You can see 'em work; they're pink.” – The Glass Cat1

Robert scored 70 hits on the practice dummy; Jalila, 60; and Nisrine, 40.

Victor did not expect the experiment to work; therefore, he fears what happens when it actually does work.

Comma Splice: Robert is good with a staff, he practices twice a day.
Corrected: Robert is good with a staff; he practices twice a day.

Incorrect Usage: He might have confessed what he had done; but was afraid of incurring their anger.
The semicolon connects an independent thought with a dependent clause. It should be a comma.

Having never worked with computer before; Alan was nervous.
A comma should be used instead of a semicolon.

The shadows were closing in on them, however, they tried to outrun them.
A semicolon should be used since a transitional phrase is connecting two independent clauses.
Corrected: The shadows were closing in on them; however, they tried to outrun them.

Semicolons
Definition: n. A mark of punctuation (;) used to connect independent clauses and indicating a closer relationship between the clauses than a period does.
Or
A punctuation mark used to connect major sentence elements of equal grammatical rank.

History:
An Italian printer named Aldus Manutius was the first person to use the semicolon. Manutius used the punctuation mark in order to specify the meanings and individuality of two opposing words, and also to separate independent statements. The first use of the semicolon within the English language occurred in 1560, by a London printer named Henry Denham. Denham actually used the semicolon regularly. In 1591, Ben Johnson became the first English writer to use the semicolon with systematic regularity. It was also during this time that semicolons began to appear regularly in the mass production of literature. For example, Shakespeare started regularly using semicolons in his sonnets. However, it was not until the late 18th century that the semicolon became accepted as a standard form of punctuation.
Examples in Use:
The semicolon can often be used to avoid run-on sentences by indicating a break in two separate ideas or clauses within the sentence. The semicolon is used instead of a period in situations such as these in order to avoid sentence fragments. An example of the semicolon in use to avoid these two possible structural problems can be seen in the following sentence. “In 1800, a traveler needed six weeks to get from New York City to Chicago; in 1860, the trip by railroad took two days.” Had the sentence ended after “Chicago” the remaining clause would have been a sentence fragment. Transversely, had the word “Chicago” been followed by a comma the sentence would have been a run-on.
The semicolon can also be used in conjunction with a transitional phrase to combine independent clauses. If a transitional phrase is found within a single sentence then a semicolon will almost certainly precede it. As an example, “Many corals grow very gradually; in fact, the creation of a coral reef can take centuries.” The transitional phrase within that sentence was the words “in fact.” The semicolon was used successfully in combining the two similar ideas or clauses of the sentence.
There are also a number of misuses of the semicolon. More often than not when a semicolon is misused it is simply because the comma would have been more effective, or even more correct. The most common misuse occurs in sentences with subordinate clauses. As an example, “unless you brush your teeth within ten or fifteen minutes after eating; brushing does almost no good.” In the previous sentence the semicolon used after “eating” should have been a comma. Basically, the problem with the semicolon in that situation is the fact that the clause, “brushing does almost no good,” cannot stand on its own as an independent clause.

Sources:
Hacker, Diana. "The Semicolon." A Writer's Reference. 6th ed. 273-6.

"The Semicolon." Guide to Grammar and Writing. 29 Nov. 2008 <http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/marks/semicolon.htm>.

"Semicolon's have an Interesting History." Semicolons. Auburn University. 30 Nov. 2008<http://www.auburn.edu/academic/liberal_arts/english/ec/resources/pot8.htm>.

Sources:
1 Baum, L. Frank. The Patchwork Girl of Oz. 1913. Project Gutenberg.
<http://www.gutenberg.org/catalog/world/readfile?fk_files=36755&pageno=33>

Ryan, Dye, Duan Guiyong, Anna Head, Kyong-Mi Lee, Robin Sabino, and Kelly McClelland. "Semicolon". Auburn University. Nov. 29, 2008.
<http://www.auburn.edu/academic/liberal_arts/english/ec/resources/pot8.htm>

"Semicolon". Wikipedia. Nov. 29, 2008 < http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Semicolon>

"The Semicolon". University of Ottawa. Nov. 29, 2008
<http://www.uottawa.ca/academic/arts/writcent /hypergrammar/semicoln.html>

Apostrophes

ssnover2 — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 12:24:35 CST

Definition: The apostrophe is a punctuation mark that resembles a "floating comma" and is used for two main purposes. First, to form the possessive form of nouns and second, to show the omission of letters.

History: I could not really find anything on the history of apostrophes, but the term "greengrocers' apostrophe" has been created for when an apostrophe is used incorrectly to pluralize a word by adding an apostrophe plus an "s" instead of the correct ending. An example would be "Apple's are on sale". The term was likely introduced in England during the 1950s when many foreign store-owners would incorrectly use apostrophes in their signs. The term came from frequent incorrect usage of apostrophes in grocery stores, but now applies to more than just grocery stores.

Usage/Examples:

Apostrophesare used to show thepossessiveform of nouns. Here are some rules for how to use an apostrophe when the noun ispossessive.

-Add 's to singular nouns, even when they end in s

Examples: cat's bowl, James's book

-Add 's to plural nouns that do not end in s

Example: children's toys

Add ' to the end of plural nouns that end in s

Example: cars' doors

Do not use apostrophes withpossessivepronouns, such as its, his, my, and yours, because they already show possession.

Apostrophes are also used to show the omission of letters in a contraction. A contraction is a shortened form of a word or a group of words.

Examples: she's (she is), don't (do not)

It is important to note that the apostrophe is placed where letters have been omitted and that that is not always in the same spot that the two words have been put together.

Works Cited

"The Apostrophe." Online Writing Lab. Purdue University Online Writing Lab. <http://owl.english.purdue.edu/handouts/grammar/g_apost.html>.

Nordquist, Richard. Guidelines for Using Apostrophes Correctly.About.com: Grammar and Composition. <http://grammar.about.com/od/punctuationandmechanics/tp/guideapostrophe.htm>.

Pollick, Michael. What are Greengrocers' Apostrophes?2003. wiseGEEK. <http://www.wisegeek.com/what-are-greengrocers-apostrophes.htm>.

Comma

mkimme2 — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 12:23:09 CST

[1] Definition
A comma is “the sign (,), a mark of punctuation used for indicating a division in a sentence, as in setting off a word, phrase, or clause, esp. when such a division is accompanied by a slight pause or is to be noted in order to give order to the sequential elements of the sentence. It is also used to separate items in a list, to mark off thousands in numerals, to separate types or levels of information in bibliographic and other data, and, in Europe, as a decimal point.” (Dictionary.com)
A comma also represents a phrase with an emphasis on “joining several phrases without any conjunctions.” (Burton)
[2] History The comma originated in the third century BC when the “Aristophanes of Byzantium invented a system of single dots that separated verses and indicated the amount of breath needed to complete each fragment of text when reading aloud.” (Wikipedia.com) The term “comma” was coined many years later. The mark that represents a comma today originated as a diagonal slash, which used to be used as a pause from the thirteenth to seventeenth centuries. In the sixteenth century, the diagonal slash dropped to the bottom of the line and curved, turning into the shape used today. (Wikipedia.com) [3] Rules and Examples There are many rules to using commas, but we are going to concentrate on where to place them. Sometimes when you place commas in the wrong place it gives the sentence a whole different meaning. Here are some of the more used rules about where to place a comma. A. You can use a comma when you are conjoining two independent clauses (grammar.edu) Example from Grammar.edu 1. He hit the ball well, but he ran toward third base. 2. He hit the ball well but, he ran toward third base. We can see that it is very important to put commas before the conjunction. Example 2 from Truss 1. Eat here, and get gas. 2. Eat here and, get gas. We can see that the second sentence does not work because it does not read as smoothly. Example 3 from Meaghan Kimme 1. The dog rolls over well, but needs to work on playing dead. 2. The dog rolls over well but, needs to work on playing dead. We can see that the second sentence does not work because it does not read as well as the first. B. You use a comma “to separate coordinate adjectives.” (grammar.edu) Example from Grammar.edu 1. She is a little old lady. 2. She is a little and old lady. 3. She is a little, old lady. We can see that you would not put a comma in this sentence because an “and” would not sound right where the comma is. The rule here is that if you can put an “and” where the comma is, then you should use a comma. Example 2 from Grammar.edu 1. He is a tall, distinguished fellow. 2. He is a tall and distinguished fellow. 3. He is a tall distinguished fellow. We can see that you would put a comma in this sentence because the sentence can read as written in sentences one and two. Example 3 from Meaghan Kimme 1. The furry, hairy horse was getting its’ winter coat. 2. The furry and hairy horse was getting its’ winter coat. 3. The furry hairy horse was getting its’ winter coat. We can see that you can put an “and” between “furry” and “hairy”, therefore you can use a comma instead. [4] Recommended Readings I would suggest reading “Pause and Effect” by Malcolm B. Parkes if you would like to further your knowledge of commas. I would also suggest reading “Eats, Shoots & Leaves” by Lynne Truss if you are trying to relay how to use commas to younger people. [5] Bibliography Burton, Gideon O. "Articulus." Silva Rhetoricae. Brigham Young University. 26 Nov. 2008 <http://humanities.byu.edu/rhetoric/silva.htm>. Burton, Gideon O. "Comma." Silva Rhetoricae. Brigham Young University. 26 Nov. 2008 <http://humanities.byu.edu/rhetoric/silva.htm>. "Comma." Dictionary.com Unabridged (v 1.1). Random House, Inc. 29 Nov. 2008. <Dictionary.com http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/comma>. "Rules For Comma Usage." Guide to Grammar and Writing. Capital Community College Foundation. 26 Nov. 2008 <http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/commas.htm>. Truss, Lynne, and Bonnie Timmons. Eats, Shoots and Leaves : Why, Commas Really Do Make a Difference! New York, NY: Putnam Juvenile, 2006.

Affect/Effect

frommybookshelf — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 11:57:23 CST

Definition: Affect is a verb only and means to exert influence or to act upon. Effect is both a verb and a noun. When effect is used as a verb, it means to cause a condition or result. As a noun, effect means the result or reality.

History: Affect derives from the etymon classical Latin affectre meaning to try to accomplish, to set out on, attempt, to try to reach or achieve, to strive after, to aspire to. Effect as a noun, derives from the etymon classical Latin effectus meaning performance, accomplishment state of completion, result, outcome, favourable result, success, mode of action or operation and in post-classical Latin also reality as opposed to appearance. Effect in the verb form, derives from classical Latin effect past participial stem of efficere meaning to manufacture, make, to cause to occur, to bring it about that, to be the cause that, to carry out, accomplish.

Examples:

The early frost will affect the crops. (influence)
The new administrator wants to effect a change in the company’s policy. (to cause)
The fog gives the campus a spooky effect. (result)

As previously stated, affect with an a is only a verb and effect with an e can be used as a noun and verb. But to help you remember which word to use, a mnemonic is helpful. Remember aardvark—a very easy noun. The letters of “a very easy noun” correspond to “affect verb effect noun”. But why aardvark? Thanks to Grammar Girl’s cartoon (http://erinstraza.files.wordpress.com/2007/08/jitcrunch.jpg), you can always remember, "The arrows affected Aardvark. The effect was eye-popping." This cartoon helps you remember affect with an a goes with the a-words, arrow and aardvark, and that effect with an e goes with the e-word, eye-popping. When you picture the sentences, "The arrows affected the aardvark. The effect was eye-popping," you see the words used correctly. Although effect is also used as a verb, it is more commonly used as a noun. But the mnemonic is still helpful to remember affect and effect as a noun. You will have to recall effect can also be used as a verb meaning to cause a condition or result.

But, at least one exception to the rules always exists! In the case of affect verses effect, the exception is affect can be used as a noun when you’re referring to psychology- meaning the mood someone appears to have. For example, “He presented a melancholy affect.” Psychologist use affect because they cannot truly ever really understand what someone is feeling but only can observe how they appear to be feeling.

To test your skills on affect vs. effect visit this website for an interactive quiz http://owl.english.purdue.edu/handouts/interact/g_affecteffect.html.

Sources:

English Usage Portfolio. Thomas S. Klise Company, 2001.

Mignon, Fogarty. "Effect vs. Affect." Grammar Girl 14 10 2006 30 Nov 2008 <http://grammar.quickanddirtytips.com/>.

"affect, v." Oxford English Dictionary. 2008. Oxford University Press. 30 Nov 2008 <http://dictionary.oed.com/>.

"I" Before "E" Except...

mdrake2 — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 11:44:44 CST

There is no abstract available for this page revision.

The Concluding Paragraph

blongwell2 — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 11:28:06 CST

Definition: The concluding paragraph in any form of writing is key. Along with the introduction, it acts as a frame for the ideas presented in the body of writing (“Conclusions”). An effective conclusion should reiterate your main idea without simply repeating it (Hacker 16). It may also point to a larger conclusion (beyond just the paper you are concluding) and suggest an implication or idea for further exploration (Harvey 83).

History: The use of the noun conclusion, meaning the end, close, or termination, was first used in 1382 (“Conclusion”), although there is little information to be found about the history of the concluding paragraph itself. This is most likely due to the fact that it is simply logical to summarize the argument of an essay in order to echo one’s purpose and inspire the reader.

Examples:

This example ends an essay about the social skills of bartending:

If someone were to approach me one day looking for the secret to running a good bar, I suppose I would offer the following advice: Get your customers to pour out their ideas at a greater rate than you pour out the liquor. You will both win in the end.
-Kathleen Lewis (Hacker 17)

Notice that this conclusion neither restates the thesis verbatim nor dully repeats the main point in the essay.

A memorable conclusion may include an image, a quotation, a small piece of dialogue, an anecdote, or a humorous, witty, or ironic comment (17)

As it turns out, I am the only passenger on the mail boat at this time. I stash my gear in a tiny cabin and later recall something Percy had told me after our lobster dive as we waded ashore under the lavish Bahamian sun. “Think about what kind of world we’d have if every kid on the planet could grow up on an island like this. There’d be no more violence, mon. No more hatred. Just love for everybody. A big, big, love.”
If only Ragged Island could gobble up the rest of the world, in other words, instead of sliding slowly in the opposite direction. We could all be stranded together. Marooned as a way of life. The world would be one big island.
And we wouldn’t need mail boats anymore. (Tidwell 1999, E8) (Harvey 84)

Another idea for ending your essay is by “closing the circle” (Harvey 83). When closing the circle, you should return to an example or story that was used in the introduction (83). By repeating something from your introduction in your conclusion, it suggests to the reader that you have been tracking your argument and that they should do the same (83). The following is an example of closing the circle from a paper on Shakespeare’s Coriolanus:

Introduction:
“Boy of tears,” Aufidius taunts the roman general Coriolanus near the end of Shakespeare’s play (5.6.100), and the vehemence of Coriolanus’ response suggests that Aufidius has hit the mark: there is something childish and sad about this fiercely proud warrior.

Conclusion:
By the end, Coriolanus has thrown away not only his old identity but his new one as well. The “boy of tears” is left with only his immature fury and sullen isolation. His final act of mercy leads not only to reconciliation but to further suffering, loss, and death. (83-84)

Another form of closing the circle that can be utilized is to use the exact same sentence structure in the conclusion as one used in the introduction. However by changing several key words a new meaning can arise.

Introduction:

If the saying that all’s well that ends well is true; then it could be said that there is absolutely, unequivocally, uncontrovertibly no way in hell that Mary Shelly’sFrankensteincould be considered to be “well” or pleasant. Why? Primarily, every main character dies. Secondly, it would not be irrational to suggest that those surviving characters would find a welcomed solace in death due to the extent of psychological trauma that they endured. Thirdly and most emphatically, EVERY-MAIN-CHARACTER-DIES.

Conclusion:

If the saying that all’s well that ends well is true; then it could be said that there is absolutely, unequivocally, uncontrovertibly, no way in hell that Mel Brooks’Young Frankensteincould not be called “well” or pleasant. Why? Primarily, the lives of every main character have been changed for the better. Secondly, it would not be irrational to suggest that if the Love seen in this film was put into practice by a few, the world would be changed for the better. Thirdly and most emphatically, THE-LIVES-OF-EVERY-MAIN-CHARACTER-HAVE-BEEN-CHANGED-FOR-THE-BETTER.

Sources and Links:

"Conclusion." Oxford English Dictionary. 1989. Oxford University Press. 30 Nov 2008
<http://dictionary.oed.com/cgi/entry/50046383?single=1&query_type=word&que
ryword=conclusion&first=1&max_to_show=10>.

"Conclusions." The Writing Center. 2007. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
30 Nov 2008 <http://www.unc.edu/depts/wcweb/handouts/conclusions.html>.

Hacker, Diana. A Writer's Reference. 5th. New York: Bedford/St. Martin's, 2003.

Harvey, Michael. The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing. 1st. Indianapolis: Hackett
Publishing Company, Inc., 2003.

http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/composition/endings.htm

The Quotation Mark

bbotti2 — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 11:12:10 CST

“The Quotation Mark” Quotation marks (“ ”) are used to set off material that represents quoted or spoken language. A quotation mark also sets off the titles of things that do not normally stand by themselves: short stories, poems, and articles. Usually, a quotation is set off from the rest of the sentence by a comma.
The history of the quotation mark dates back hundreds of years. In the first centuries of typesetting, quotations were used just to indicate the speaker of something. Quotation marks were first cut in metal type during the middle of the sixteenth century, and were used often by some printers by the seventeenth. In some Romantic-period books, they would be repeated at the beginning of every line of a long quotation. In Modern English, quotation marks were used only to denote brief comments. They first began to quote direct speech in 1714. By 1749 single quotation marks, or inverted commas, were commonly used to represent direct speech.
There are several ways to use quotation marks in modern literature. The most common of these rules are to separate someone’s direct dialogue from a narration or writing. They are used to indicate the title of a short story, poem, or article that does not normally stand alone. Lastly they can be used in a more unique way. They can be used to set apart a descriptive yet unusual or starling word or phrase in a sentence. The most commonly seen usage of a quotation mark is it indicates were a direct passage is being used. For example, if someone wanted to use a section of the star spangled banner in their essay they would need to quote it, “ the land of the free and home of the brave,” to signify that this passage comes directly from the original anthem. The second most common way to use a set of quotation marks is to indicate the title of a poem or short story. For example, if you were writing a paper about the poem “The Raven” by Edgar Allen Poe, you would have to put the title in quotes each time you use it to show that “The Raven” is the actual title of the work. The last common use for the quotation mark is to set apart an unusual or startling word in a sentence. For example, John claim he “knew” 2+2=4, but he got it wrong on the test. Sources http://www.nationalpunctuationday.com/quotes.html http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quotation_marks http://www.answers.com/topic/quotation-mark http://www.ehow.com/how_4581731_use-quotation-marks-correctly.html

Gerunds. Written By Andrew Martz

sandrewm — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 11:11:03 CST

Andrew Martz

There are three types of verbals: Gerunds, Infinitives and Participles. Each are incredibly important not only to the English language, but to several other languages throughout the world. I was never taught how to effectively recognize these verbals in a sentence. Gerunds were taught but the lesson on them was brief. Therefore, I am interested in expanding my understanding of verbals and I'm sure that I will through this project.

Gerunds are verbals which are non-finite verbs which are used in a variety of languages excluding English such as Latin and Spanish. The English language relies heavily on gerunds because they are critical to forming clauses and effectively using prepositions. They are usually found as a verb within a clause and are identical in form to present participles. When a gerund is incorporated within a clause, the clause acts as a noun within the larger sentence. Gerunds often follow a preposition. A key principle of gerunds is that they end in "ing" and function as nouns. They express action or a state of being. It is a verb but it frequently takes a place in the sentence that a noun usually would. For example, gerunds are often used as a subject, direct object, subject complement or an object of a preposition. Gerunds and Gerund Phrases never require any punctuation and if punctuation is involved, chances are, the word is not a gerund.

A participle is a verbal that is used as an adjective and usually ends in "ed" or "ing". Like the gerund, the participle either expresses action or a state of being. They function as adjectives, therefore, they modify nouns or pronouns. Participles are key in participial phrases. Participial phrases consist of participles and the modifiers, pronouns and nouns that function as direct objects, indirect objects or complements that are being used to express a certain state of being. In order to prevent confusion when using participial phrases, the noun must be explicitly and clearly stated, and the participial phrase must be placed as close to the noun it modifies. Unlike Gerunds, punctuation is used regularly when dealing with participles. When a participial phrase begins the sentence, a comma should be used after the phrase. If it comes in the middle, the phrase should be set of by commas but only if the information in not essential to the meaning of the sentence. Finally, a comma is used when the phrase comes at the end of the sentence and is separated from the word that it modifies. Whenever a participial phrase's information is important to the sentence, no commas are to be used.

Infinitives are verbals that use the word "to" plus a verb. They can function as a noun, adjective, or adverb.The infinitive can also be used as a subject, direct object, subject complement, adjective, or adverb within a sentence. Infinitives are the most confusing of the verbals due to the difficulty it takes to recognize them. For example, prepositional phrases may begin with "to" just like the infinitive. They are distinguished by the fact that infinitives are the word "to" followed by a verb whereas prepositional phrases are followed by either a noun or a pronoun and its modifiers. Infinitives require punctuation only if they use an adverb at the beginning of the sentence.

It is clear that Gerunds, Participles, and Infinitives each tie in to enrich the English language and make it more versatile. It is true that they are quite different from each other, but they are also the same in many ways.

Citation:

Brizee, Allen. "Verbals: Gerunds, Participles, and Infinitives". The Owl at Purdue. 12/1/08 <http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/627/03/>.

Possessive Nouns

shackett2 — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 10:42:03 CST

There is no abstract available for this page revision.

Plagiarism

ngaeto — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 01:17:08 CST

Plagiarism
Webster’s Dictionary defines plagiarism as: “to steal and pass off (the ideas or words of another) as one's own: use (another's production) without crediting the source.” This is the primary form of literary theft, that is, the passing off of other’s ideas as your own (Note: This article deals with literary plagiarism, not plagiarism in journalism). The idea of plagiarism is as old as literature, but with the advent of the computer and copy/paste, it has become significantly easier. Samuel Taylor Coleridge is a famous example of a plagiarist; he is believed to have borrowed much of his work in Biographia Literaria from several German philosophers.
Plagiarism is sometimes hard to detect, as even the theft of nothing more than a basic literary idea is considered plagiarism. For example, say I am writing an essay on a topic, maybe Frankenstein. While drifting through a Google search looking for sources for your paper, which deals with how Dr. Frankenstein is the true monster in the work, you come across a separate idea—how Frankenstein is based off the Greek myth of Prometheus. Since you like this idea better than your original one, you change your essay and start again, using only the same (in different words) thesis as the author of the web page you discovered. You copy nothing else, and do your own research. Believe it or not, this is plagiarism. To put it in perspective, it is similar to stealing the “plot idea” of a movie or book and writing a story with that (Such as: “Farm boy must leave his planet and fight the evil Empire and embrace his destiny”, for the original Star Wars movie).
The most common example of plagiarism is the simple copy and pasting of a thought, usually limited to a paragraph or so, but possibly including the entire essay. Using an essay purchased online is also an example of this. Using the previous example, this would be if you had actually copied over a sizable portion of the other author’s work, passing it off as your own. This is the most recognizable form of plagiarism, and therefore the easiest to avoid.
“Rephrasing” an idea is also plagiarism, although it may not appear so at first glance. Recall, however, the definition of plagiarism in the first paragraph: “to steal and pass off (the ideas or words of another) as one's own”. The pure copying of words means nothing; it is the idea that is important.

Works Citied:
"Plagiarism." Wikipedia. 30 Nov 2008 <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plagiarism#cite_note-1>.
"Plagiarism." Webster's Online Dictionary. 30 Nov 2008 <http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/plagiarizing>.
"Samual Taylor Colridge." Encyclopedia.com. 30 Nov 2008 <http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1E1-ColeridgST.html>.

Sarcasm

analyze_this — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 23:16:08 CST

Sarcasm

By: Rachela Forcellese

Definition: use of mockery, verbal taunts, or bitter irony. (Silva Rhetoricae) a mode of satirical wit depending for its effect on bitter, caustic, and often ironic language that is usually directed against an individual. (Merriam-Webster)

History: Sarcasm has been used for thousands of years, and sarcasm does not have on true “creator” it appears in texts as old as the bible. Sarcasm has always been used to comically prove a point, or mock an issue. Writers such as William Shakespeare and Geoffrey Chaucer used sarcasm in their works. Even French philosopher Voltaire was known for his use of sarcasm. Writers have used it for centuries to make their writing entertaining, while still proving a point in their prose.

Examples:

Sarcasm can me used for multiple effects in writing. It’s most effective when used to make a valid, serious, point humourous, but still believable and intellectual. Sarcasm has the ability to make a legitimate argument sound less like a lecture. It can entertain the audience without taking away any of the intellectual points made within the argument.

- In Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, Mark Antony refers to Brutus as an “honorable man” multiple times throughout the speech he is giving at Caesar’s funeral. This is a prime example of sarcasm because Brutus was indeed the man that betrayed Caesar and murdered him. It allows the readers to be aware of the irony in this passage, but does not let the characters in the book know what is going on entirely. If it had been written literally, the people listening to the speech would ultimately know what cruel deed Brutus did.

- In Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales, he describes the Friar as “wanton and merry”. He is a man who takes advantage of women and accepts money and bribes for the church. The use of sarcasm here emphasizes the corruption of the church and it’s people, something Chaucer was trying to get across. Again, if he had just been literal it would take away the emphasis and the humorous element of the passage. Here, sarcasm is used through the image of one of the characters. It doesn’t always have to be exposition or dialogue.

- In Alexander Pope’s satire, The Rape of the Lock, a young girls lock of hair is cut off without her permission. The ordeal is taken out of proportion and is being handled as if it were a real crime. Pope uses satire and sarcasm to mock the uptight nature of society. This epic poem is made humorous through the use of sarcasm. It takes away the serious, lecturing, nature of what Pope wants to say and turns it into something entertaining. The use of sarcams makes an intellectual point without boring the reader. Pope was able to make a valid point about societies conservative attitude without turning it into a speech.

Also, sarcasm is often exaggerated or emphasized so the reader can properly understand that it’s sarcasm. If it’s too subtle or hidden, the writing may be taken seriously by an unsophisticated reader. This isn’t to say that it has to be obvious and overbearing. Spoken sarcasm often is inflected or emphasized in different parts of the phrase. This is so it can be identified as sarcasm and not mistaken for something else.

Overall, sarcasm is a useful tool to use in writing. While it may not work effectively in a serious essay, it tends to flourish in satire’s and other pieces that mock a topic. Overuse of sarcasm can become irritating and redundant. But, the if the perfect amount is used, then your writing becomes more sophisticated and advanced.

Sources

Burton, Gideon O. "Sarcasm." SILVA RHETORICAE. Brigham Young University. 1
Dec. 2008 <http://humanities.byu.edu/rhetoric/figures/s/sarcasmus.htm>.

"Definition - Sarcasm." Merriam Webster. 1 Dec. 2008 <http://www.merriam-
webster.com/dictionary/sarcasm>.. 1 Dec.
2008 <http://humanities.byu.edu/rhetoric/figures/s/sarcasmus.htm>.

"How Sarcasm Works." How Stuff Works. 1 Dec. 2008
<http://people.howstuffworks.com/sarcasm2.htm>

Exclmation Point

bstafford2 — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 21:54:49 CST

Exclamation Point also called an “exclamation mark”

Definition: Punctuation point sign (!) used in order to express exclamation in a sentence or phrase to end them The use

of an exclamation point is normally used to express strong feeling

“I am so excited to see you!”

“I missed you so much!”

“That was so much fun!”

You can also use it at the end of a forceful command

“Get over here!”

“Why did you do that!”

Also used on the inside of quotations Introduced in the 1400’s in the English printing, the sign made its first appearance

in the Luther bible in 1797. Not till 1970 did it become standard on the type writer. The mark may be derived from the

latin word Io, meaning joy with the o written under the I creating the familiar exclamation point symbol . The use of

more than one exclamation point in not expectable in the formal English language like “help!!!!”. Other languages also

use the exclamation point to express exclamation, strong feeling, and forceful command. Usually used in dialogue of

people in stories to express the tense of the speaker. It has not changed over time ass remained the same however the

use of mutable exclamation points at the end to express additional emphasis. An exclamation point can also be used

to express sound. (Woof!! Moo!!!)

http://www.ehow.com/how_5952_exclamation-point.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exclamation_mark

http://www.answers.com/topic/exclamation-point

http://www.nationalpunctuationday.com/exclamationpoint.html

Metaphors and Similes

skrome2 — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 20:34:14 CST

Metaphors and Similes

Two literary techniques that have become cornerstones in the foundation of writing are the simile and metaphor. Both draw comparisons between two unrelated objects; however, similes use like or as to compare two things, while metaphors do not. For example, a simile would be:
Her voice was like a bell.
A metaphor, however, would be:
Her voice was a bell.

The effect of similes and metaphors also differs. In a metaphor, the qualities of a bell- tinkling, musical, beautiful- are transferred directly onto the girl’s voice. Thus, the comparison is more potent because it is more direct. The identity of the girl’s voice is tied up with the identity of a bell.

In a simile, the reader is alerted immediately to the fact that a comparison is being made. The girl’s voice is similar to a bell’s, but it is not like that of a bell; the identities are alike, but not the same.

In metaphors, the two comparisons are melded together, despite their apparent differences. In similes, the differences between two comparisons remain separate and retain their individuality. Both similes and metaphors are effective and poetic, and both add flavor and interest to writing.

Entomology/ History

Metaphor comes from the Greek word metaphora, which means “To transfer.”
Thus, it is an appropriate word for its meaning, as metaphors transfer different qualities onto something through a comparison.

Simile sounds like similar; one way to remember the differences between simile and metaphor is that simile sounds like similar, and like or as indicate things that are similar.

These techniques have been used since Ancient Greek writers, such as Homer.

Examples

Some famous examples of metaphors include:
“Juliet is the sun”
-William Shakespeare
“No man is an island”
-John Donne
Some famous examples of similes include:
“Oh, my luve is like a red, red rose”
-Robert Burns
“…the bulb hangs in the hot dark/ like a white blood drop”
-Michael Dennis Browne

Sources and Links for further information

Mayes, Frances. The Discovery of Poetry. 2nd. New York: Harcourt Brace college Publishers, 1994
Metaphor. November 2008. Wikipedia. 30 Nov 2008 <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metaphors>.
Simile. November 2008. Wikipedia. 30 Nov 2008 <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Similes>.
Richard , Nordquist. "Using Similes and Metaphors to Enrich Our Writing (Part 1)." About.com: Grammar & Composition 30 Nov 2008 <http://grammar.about.com/od/words/a/similemetaphor1.htm>.
Richard , Nordquist. "Using Similes and Metaphors to Enrich Our Writing (Part 2)." About.com: Grammar & Composition 30 Nov 2008 <http://grammar.about.com/od/words/a/similemetaphor2.htm>.

The Semicolon ;)

ashaw3 — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 18:58:40 CST

“The semicolon is frequently considered to be the greatest of the punctuation marks, primarily due to its supposed ability to encompass all other punctuation in one simple yet elegant symbol.”

Definition: A punctuation mark (;) indicating a more pronounced pause than that indicated by a comma. Semicolons are used to bind two interlinking sentences together – more closely than if they had be separated by a full period but not as much as with a simple comma. They are never followed by an uppercase letter, unless that letter begins a proper noun.

History: The semicolon was first utilized by an Italian printer named Aldus Manutius the elder. He used it to separate words that were “opposed in meaning” and to distinguish between detached statements. (His work is on the right.) However, the semicolon was not introduced into the English language until the at least 1560. The earliest general use of the semicolon in the English language was in 1591 and Ben Jonson was the first notable English writer to systematically use semicolons. Shakespeare used them widely in his sonnets. A good example follows:

My mistress’ eyes are nothing like the sun;
Coral is far more red than her lips’ red;
If snow be white, why then her breasts are dun;
If hairs be wires, black wires grow on her head.
I have seen roses damask’d, red and white,
But no such roses see I in her cheeks;
And in some perfumes is there more delight
Than in the breath that from my mistress reeks.
I love to hear her speak, yet well I know
That music hath a far more pleasing sound;
I grant I never saw a goddess go;
My mistress, when she walks, treads on the ground:
And yet, by heaven, I think my love as rare
As any she belied with false compare.

By the time the 18th century rolled around, the semicolon was widely used and understood in Europe. In this day and age, semicolons are extremely important in the computer programming industry because depending on the program used they may be used to separate multiple statements on one line, after every statement or to mark the beginning of comments.

Applications:

…A rule that is easy to remember pertaining to the use of semicolons :)
As a general rule of thumb, the clause on either side of the semicolon should be able to stand on its own as a separate, free-standing sentence: for example, using the sentence below…
“I wanted to be an astronaut when I was little; the stars always fascinated me.”
…on either side of the semi colon are complete sentences:
“I wanted to be an astronaut when I was little.”
“The stars always fascinated me.”

Semicolons are used often to circumvent the need to add a conjunction such as and or but, and are often used to prevent ‘run-on’ sentences.

Specific Instances of Application:**

1. Semicolons are used to link two independent clauses with no connecting words. For example:
"I wanted to be an astronaut when I was little; I loved the idea of walking on the moon!"

2. Semicolons can be used to separate introductory words (for instance, namely, however, therefore, that is). For example:
“I wanted to be an astronaut when I was little and bring many things on board the space shuttle; for example, gummi bears, my dog Ellie, a camera, and my stuffed animal.

3. They are used to separate units of a series that contain one or more comma, for example listings of towns along with the states in which they reside:
“I have lived in Lock Haven, Pennsylvania; Orange County, California; Glen Mills, Pennsylvania; and Karlsruhe, Germany.”

This rule is used because to say that “I lived in Lock Haven, Pennsylvania, Orange County, California, Glen Mills, Pennsylvania and Karlsruhe, Germany” is confusing – it is unclear that the towns and the state/country in which they reside go together.

For Extra Semicolon Practice Take The Quizzes Located on These Websites:

http://www.grammarbook.com/grammar_quiz/semicolons_and_colons_1.asp
http://www.dailygrammar.com/381to385.shtml

Other Useful Websites About Semicolons:

http://www.spiritus-temporis.com/semicolon/examples.html
http://www.ehow.com/how_5955_semicolon.html

Bibliography:
“Commas vs. Semicolons in Compound Sentences.” OWL: Online Writing Lab. 2004. Perdue University. 28 November 2008 http://owl.english.purdue.edu/handouts/grammar/g_commacomp.html.
“History.” 2005. November 30 2008. http://www.spiritus-temporis.com/semicolon/history.html.
“Semicolon.” AskOxford.com. 2008. 28 November 2008 http://www.askoxford.com/concise_oed/semicolon?view=uk.
“Semicolons.” The Blue Book of Grammar and Punctuation. 30 November 2008 <http://www.grammarbook.com/punctuation/semicolons.asp>.
“Semicolons Have an Interesting History.” November 30 2008 http://www.auburn.edu/academic/liberal_arts/english/ec/resources/pot8.htm.
“Semicolon – History.” Global Oneness: Co-creating a Happy World. 30 November 2008 http://www.experiencefestival.com/semicolon_-_history.
“Shakespeare + Poetry = Sonnets.” 2005. 30 November 2008 http://www.semicolonblog.com/?p=656.

The exclmation point

hgodman — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 16:30:50 CST

Definition:
A punctuation mark that indicates strong feelings or high volume, and
often marks the end of a sentence

History:

~ Introduced to English printing in 1400s
~ used to be called “note of admiration”
~ Not featured in manual printing until 1970s
- used to have to be typed as full stop, backspaced, and then typed
apostrophe

When not to use:

~ Don’t put a period when using a exclamation mark
~ When an exclamation mark is being used do not put a space between last
letter and exclamation mark

Not normally used in:

~ Formal writing
~ Academic prose
~ Newspaper writing

Uses:

~ Can be used at the end of an emphatic declaration, interjection, or command
- “Do your chores right now!”
- “I said to clean your room!”
~ Can be used to convey extreme emotion
- “How dare you talk tot me that way!”
- “Ouch!”
~ Can be used within parentheses to put emphasis on a specific word
- Have some wonderful(!) candy.

Sources:

http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/marks/exclamation.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exclamation_mark

Colon

sfranklin2 — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 15:34:51 CST

Colon

1. Join two independent clauses when you wish to emphasize the second clause
2. Used after an independent clause when it is followed by a list, a quotation, appositive, or other idea directly related to the independent clause
3. Colons are used at the end of a business letter greeting
4. Colons separate the hour and minutes in a time notation
5. Colons separate the chapter and verse in a Biblical reference

History
Colon is derived from the Greek root, meaning limb. William Caxton started to first use colons, when printing books. He used colons to make noticeable syntactic pauses. Writers in the early seventeenth century did not use the rules for colons; they used commas, colons, and semicolons interchangeably. In the late seventeenth century rules were established for the use of the colon, semicolon, and commas.

Examples
Correct Uses of a Colon
· The teacher asked the children to bring in specific materials: pen, pencils, construction paper, and tape.
· One attribute can be overlooked: patience.
· To whom all may concern: , Members of the Committee:
· Susan has to wake up at 3:48 am to be on time for work.
· In Psalm 65: 1-13, David sings a song of praise to God.
Incorrect Uses of a Colon
1. Do not use a colon to separate a preposition from its object
· John was in charge of: cleaning, dusting, and moping. (Incorrect)
· John was in charge of cleaning, dusting, and moping. (Correct)
2. Do not use a colon to separate a verb from its objects
· Betty likes to play: jump rope, hockey, and water polo. (Incorrect)
· Betty plays jump rope, hockey, and water polo. (Correct)
3. Do not use a colon after “such as”
· Keith enjoys playing numerous sports such as: ice hockey, lacrosse, and football
(Incorrect)
· Keith enjoys playing numerous sports such as ice hockey, lacrosse, and football. (Correct)

Recommended Website
Online quizzes on the usage of colons
http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/quizzes/nova/nova5.htm

Work Cited
“Punctuation.” The Owl at Purdue. 29 Nov. 2008 <http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/566/01/>
“Colon.” Oxford English Dictionary. 29 Nov. 2008. <http://libraryres.washcoll.edu:2111/cgi/entry/50044237?query_type=word&queryword=colon&first=1&max_to_show=10&sort_type=alpha&search_id=27h6-SoMnRD-10504&result_place=1 >
“History of the Punctuation of English Writing.” Applet-magic.com. 29 Nov. 2008 <http://www.sjsu.edu/faculty/watkins/punctuation.htm>
“Grammar & Punctuation: Proper Use of the Colon”. Essortment. 29 Nov. 2008. <http://www.essortment.com/all/grammarpunctu_rxjn.htm>